TABLE 1.
Classification of chemicals that cause burn injurya
| Class | Example(s) | Mode of action |
|---|---|---|
| Reducing agents | Hydrochloric acid | Bind free electrons in tissue proteins |
| Oxidizing agents | Sodium hypochlorite | Oxidized on contacting proteins producing toxic by-products |
| Corrosive agents | Phenol | Denatures tissue proteins |
| Protoplasmic poisons | Hydrofluoric acid | Bind calcium or other ions essential to cell function |
| Acetic acid | ||
| Vesicants | Dimethyl sulforide | Ischemia with anoxic necrosis |
| Cantharides | ||
| Mustard gas | ||
| Desiccants | Sulfuric acid | Dehydration |
| Muriatic acid | Exothermic reaction |